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London - Ashley Giles has been appointed as the new director of cricket and head coach at Lancashire, the English county announced on Wednesday.
Former England limited overs coach and Ashes-winning spinner Giles had been without a full-time position since missing out to former Lancashire boss Peter Moores when the England and Wales Cricket Board combined his old post with that of Test coach six months ago.
Giles succeeds Lancashire stalwart Mike Watkinson, who stepped down from his position as the Old Trafford club's cricket director following the team's relegation from the First Division of the County Championship.
"Lancashire County Cricket Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Ashley Giles as its Cricket Director and Head Coach," said a club statement.
Giles added: "Lancashire is a massive club with a rich pedigree and history, and I am thrilled by the prospect of coaching them.
"It is our intention to return to Division One - but our main aim is create something both successful and sustainable, which a club with such an incredible history deserves," the 41-year-old added.
When Moores was brought back by the ECB for a second spell with England, Lancashire asked veteran captain Glen Chapple to become their player/coach.
However, Giles's appointment suggests Chapple will
be a player only should the 40-year-old seamer decide to continue his
career next season.
Giles had a successful period coaching Warwickshire, after retiring as a player with the Midlands county, and led the Edgbaston-side to the County Championship title in 2012.
Lancashire chairperson Michael Cairns said: "Ashley Giles is a highly respected and regarded coach with a track record of success in the county game, and has a tremendous amount of international experience garnered through a playing and coaching career.
"He is an exceptional candidate for a county like Lancashire, and we are delighted to have secured his services."
